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A first-ever analysis of cybersecurity laws and policies in Europe finds gaps and fragmentation in Member States’ cyber preparedness.

The report, released today by BSA | The Software Alliance, evaluates national laws, rules and policies in all 28 EU Member States against 25 criteria deemed essential for effective cybersecurity protections. It is intended to provide EU Member States with an opportunity to evaluate their countries’ policies against key metrics and maps a way forward by outlining the key building blocks for a strong cybersecurity legal framework.

“There is an uneven landscape when it comes to cyber protections across Europe. Most Member States acknowledge cybersecurity to be a priority, yet inconsistencies in their approach leave the entire Single Market vulnerable to threats,” said Thomas Boué, BSA’s director of policy – EMEA. “The Network and Information Security Directive could help to establish a stronger foundational level of cybersecurity and cyber resilience if it focuses on aligning the preparedness of Europe’s most critical infrastructure and introduces harmonized reporting and information sharing processes throughout the Single Market.”

Among the key findings of the report:

Most EU Member States recognize cybersecurity to be a national priority – particularly with regard to critical infrastructure.

Engender trust and work in partnership with the private sector, NGOs and international partners and allies.

Foster education and awareness about cybersecurity risk and priorities.

At the same time, the report cautions European governments to avoid unhelpful protectionist regimes that can undermine, rather than improve, cybersecurity protections. Specifically, Member States should:

Avoid unnecessary or unreasonable requirements that can restrict choice and increase costs including unique, country-specific certification or testing requirements; mandates for local content; requirements to disclose sensitive information, such as source code or encryption keys; and restrictions on foreign ownership of intellectual property.

BSA | The Software Alliance (www.bsa.org) is the leading advocate for the global software industry before governments and in the international marketplace. Its members are among the world’s most innovative companies, creating software solutions that spark the economy and improve modern life. With headquarters in Washington, DC, and operations in more than 60 countries, BSA pioneers compliance programs that promote legal software use and advocates for public policies that foster technology innovation and drive growth in the digital economy.More >>